3 Things To Do if the Oil Warning Light in Your Subaru Turns On

May 20, 2019

The oil warning light in your Subaru may be a sign that your engine's oil pressure or oil level is too low. This is a serious problem that should not be overlooked--it can even cause damage to your engine. Though the oil warning light may look like a genie's lamp, you're unlikely to get three wishes if it comes on in your Subaru. But we can do the next best thing and give you three important pieces of advice!

3. Stop Driving & Turn Off the Engine

If the oil warning light in your Subaru turns on, the first thing you should do is find a safe place to pull over (so, we don't recommend the side of a highway or busy street). Once there, turn off your engine and turn on the hazard lights. Not only will turning off the engine be necessary for the next step, but it can also keep your engine from experiencing further damage.

2. Check the Oil Level

It's possible that the oil warning light has illuminated due to a low level of engine oil in your vehicle. Once you've turned your car off, you can check to see if this is the case. Remove the oil dipstick and wipe it clean. Reinsert it into the oil reservoir, then remove it again and check it. If the oil doesn't go up to the recommended fill line, low oil may be the culprit. To help combat this, you can add some more engine oil--but don't stop there. Low oil may have caused damage to your engine, or it could be an indication of other problems, so you should bring your Subaru to an authorized service center immediately.

1. Call for a Tow

If you've topped off the oil (or if it wasn't low in the first place) and the light is still turning on, the low oil is probably not the cause of the low oil pressure. There could be a damaged component in the oil delivery system, or there could even be a faulty oil pressure sensor. If the light stays on, or if it stays off but your Subaru makes odd noises, it's best not to drive at all. Instead, have your Subaru towed to an authorized service center so the technicians can diagnose the problem.